In this article, I’ll show you how to make Mary Berry parsnip blinis with cranberry sauce and Yorkshire blue cheese, a recipe that I learned from the famous British baker and cookbook author herself.
These blinis are made with grated parsnips, flour, eggs, and baking powder, and they are cooked in a frying pan until golden and crisp. They are topped with a tangy cranberry sauce and creamy blue cheese that melts in your mouth. They are perfect for serving at a Christmas party, a New Year’s Eve celebration, or any other special occasion.
What is Mary Berry Parsnip Blinis with Cranberry Sauce and Yorkshire Blue Cheese?
Mary Berry Parsnip Blinis with Cranberry Sauce and Yorkshire Blue Cheese is a mouthwatering appetizer that combines crispy parsnip pancakes with sweet and sour cranberry sauce and rich and creamy blue cheese.
This delightful dish can be prepared in 40 minutes to an hour, making it a perfect choice for those seeking to add a sophisticated yet easy-to-make item to their menu.
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Why You Love this Recipe
This recipe is a standout for several reasons:
- Ease of Preparation: It’s straightforward and uses easily accessible ingredients, making it a hassle-free cooking experience.
- Versatility: Perfect for various occasions, these blinis can be served hot or cold, as an elegant starter, a casual snack, or even as part of a light lunch or dinner alongside a salad.
- Flavorful Delight: The combination of textures – crunchy, soft, and creamy – along with the sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, makes these blinis a truly satisfying culinary treat.
- Festive Elegance: With their striking red and white color scheme, these blinis not only taste great but also make an impressive and elegant addition to any holiday table.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Parsnip Blinis
To make Mary berry parsnip blinis, you will need the following ingredients:
- 500 g (1 lb) parsnips, peeled and coarsely grated
- 100 g (3 1/2 oz) self-raising flour
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 150 g (5 oz) cranberry sauce
- 150 g (5 oz) Yorkshire blue cheese, crumbled
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Parsnip Blinis
Follow these simple steps, to make this recipe.
Step 1: Prepare the Parsnip Mixture
- In a large bowl, mix together the grated parsnips, flour, eggs, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- The mixture should be thick and sticky, but not too wet.
- If it is too dry, add a little water.
- If it is too wet, add a little more flour.
Step 2: Cook the Blinis
- Heat a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat and add a little oil.
- Drop heaped tablespoons of the parsnip mixture onto the pan and flatten them slightly with a spatula.
- Cook for about 3 minutes on each side, or until golden and crisp.
- You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your pan.
- Transfer the cooked blinis to a baking sheet and keep them warm in a low oven until ready to serve.
Step 3: Serve the Blinis
- Spoon some cranberry sauce over each blini and sprinkle some blue cheese on top.
- Garnish with some chopped parsley and enjoy!
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Parsnip Blinis?
These blinis are delightful on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can enhance their flavors:
- Green Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette to add a light and refreshing element.
- Roasted Nuts or Seeds: Add a crunchy, protein-rich dimension with a sprinkle of roasted nuts or seeds.
- Fresh Fruit or Berries: Complement the savory taste of the blinis with the natural sweetness of fresh fruit or berries.
- Crackers or Bread: For a more substantial meal, include some crackers or bread for added carbs and fiber.
- Sparkling Beverage: Pair with sparkling wine or cider to add a celebratory fizz and complete the dining experience.
Expert Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Parsnip Blinis
To ensure your blinis turn out just as delightful as Mary Berry’s, follow these pro tips:
- Maximize Parsnip Dryness: Thoroughly wring out grated parsnips to remove as much moisture as possible. This is key for achieving faster cooking and a crisper texture.
- Use of Cookware: Opt for a non-stick frying pan with a bit of oil to ensure your blinis don’t stick or burn.
- Cooking Technique: Cook the blinis over medium-high heat. Wait until they’re golden and firm on the bottom before flipping them gently with a spatula.
- Serving Temperature: Keep the blinis warm in a low oven until serving. Alternatively, reheat them briefly in the oven to restore crispness before serving.
- Ingredient Quality: Choose high-quality cranberry sauce and blue cheese to elevate the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
Variations of Mary Berry Parsnip Blinis with Cranberry Sauce and Yorkshire Blue Cheese
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some variations to try:
- Alternative Root Vegetables: Swap parsnips with other root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes, or turnips.
- Flour Varieties: Experiment with different flours such as whole wheat, oats, or almond flour instead of self-raising flour.
- Cheese Options: Replace blue cheese with other cheeses like goat cheese, cream cheese, brie, or cheddar for different flavor profiles.
- Sauce Selection: Instead of cranberry sauce, consider apple sauce, fig jam, or chutney as alternatives.
- Herbs and Spices: Enhance the parsnip mixture with spices or herbs like nutmeg, cinnamon, thyme, or rosemary for an extra flavor kick.
How do I store Mary Berry Parsnip Blinis with Cranberry Sauce and Yorkshire Blue Cheese Leftovers?
To store leftovers properly:
- Separation: Keep the blinis separate from the sauce and cheese to prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Cooling: Allow the blinis to cool completely to maintain crispiness.
- Labeling: Label and date the storage container for easy identification and freshness tracking.
- Reheating: Reheat the blinis in the oven or microwave and then top with sauce and cheese just before serving.
How do I reheat Mary Berry Parsnip Blinis with Cranberry Sauce and Yorkshire Blue Cheese Leftovers?
Effortlessly reheat your blinis:
- Oven Method: Preheat to 180°C (160°C fan) or gas mark 4. Arrange blinis on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and bake for 10-15 minutes until hot and crisp.
- Microwave Method: Set to high power. Place blinis on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Finishing Touches: After reheating, add cranberry sauce and a sprinkle of blue cheese. Garnish with chopped parsley to serve.
Nutritional Information
One serving (4 blinis) of this recipe provides approximately:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Protein: 11 g
FAQs
Can I make these blinis gluten-free?
Yes, you can make Mary Berry’s Parsnip Blinis gluten-free by substituting the self-raising flour with a gluten-free self-raising flour blend. Be sure to check the labels of other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
What can I use as a substitute for Yorkshire blue cheese?
If you can’t find Yorkshire blue cheese or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute it with other types of blue cheese like Stilton or Gorgonzola. For a milder taste, goat cheese or feta are also great alternatives.
Can I prepare these blinis in advance for a party?
Yes, these blinis are great for making ahead. You can prepare and cook them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven before serving and top with cranberry sauce and blue cheese. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Are there any variations I can try for the cranberry sauce?
Definitely! While cranberry sauce offers a classic holiday flavor, you can experiment with other sauces like apple chutney, fig jam, or even a savory caramelized onion jam for a unique twist.
Final Words
I hope you enjoyed this article and learned how to make Mary Berry’s parsnip blinis with cranberry sauce and Yorkshire blue cheese. This is a simple and tasty recipe that is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Try it out and let me know what you think in the comments below. Happy cooking!